Three Long-Term Health Risks Caused by Fire

Apart from the actual danger of the heat and smoke from a fire, the long-term health effects that can be caused by fires are very serious. The problems may range from just minor respiratory problems to fatal ones such as cancer. Although much of the long-term damages to one’s health occurs in the midst of the fire and getting out of it, serious health hazards still linger if your home is not cleaned and restored from the damages as soon as possible. M.A. Restoration in the Worcester area is a company qualified to restore your home after a fire and keep you safe from the lingering health risks.

Smoke and Soot Inhalation

Inhaling large amounts of smoke and soot can be just as dangerous as the fire itself. This is especially true for young children, elderly people, and those that are sick. Soot is composed of tiny microscopic materials burned in the heat of the fire. It can be made of lots of different materials which is what makes it so dangerous. Some of the soot particles it contains can be especially hazardous to your health. Smoke and soot must be cleaned by professional fire restoration technicians that know where to look for soot damage and how to clean it up properly. They have professional equipment that will get the job done and ensure a safe and comfortable living environment.

Threats of Cancer Development

The threat of cancer development stems from the effects of smoke and soot inhalation. The microscopic particles in soot vary in composition and some may contain carcinogens, which cause cancer. Those particles that contain carcinogens are often made up of acids, chemicals, and metals. These are the last things you want to be breathing in. Therefore, if you are in a fire while it is still burning, you should do all you can to cover your mouth so as to breathe in as little soot as possible. After a fire, the particles will still be in your home so you should avoid being in it as much as possible until it is cleaned or wear the proper respiration gear while you are inside to keep yourself safe from the hazards of smoke and soot inhalation.

Psychological Impact

Another less thought of, but equally dangerous effects of enduring a fire, are the potential psychological effects. Being in a fire can be a very traumatic experience. A common reaction afterward is the development of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder or other similar mental disorders. If you feel that this might be you, reach out to a counselor or a professional that can help you work through the aftermath of such an ordeal.

Hopefully, you never find yourself in an unfortunate circumstance caused by a fire. If you are, it’s critical that you avoid breathing in any soot or smoke at all costs during and after the fire. This is why it’s so important that you hire a professional restoration contractor to come in and clean up the mess for you. At M.A. Restoration in the Worcester area, we are here to help you get through an ordeal like this and be able to feel safe in your home once again.